Study On The Tributary Trade Between Ming Dynasty And Timurid Dynasty

The tribute trade between Ming dynasty and Timurid dynasty shaped an important part of closely relations among Ming China and various states in western region, as well, one of the main way for exchange between Ming China and the central Asian area by means of “silk road”. Taking time as the clue, relying on a large number of Chinese and foreign documents, and combined with the latest research results of the current academic circle on the same topic, this paper strives for comprehensive, systematic, and objective historical process of tribute trade development track of the Ming dynasty and Timuridid dynasty.In 1387, Timurid sent the Muslim Mawla Hafiz to Ming dynasty to initial the tribute relation, and the Ming dynasty gave generous reward, then this marked the tribute relation was established officially. Since then, the tribute trade developed closely in Hongwu years(1368-1398). In 1396, with the growth of power and breed of ambition, Timurid detained the Fu’an mission from Ming. Since then, Timurid’s attitude to the Ming dynasty turned hardened gradually, and finally developed into a violent confrontation. In 1404, Timurid led crusade to the east, and the Ming dynasty was reluctant to show weakness and embattled actively, strengthened the border defense; and this left the relation of the two be triggered at any moment. After Chengzu emperor of Ming dynasty ascended the throne, with the bilateral efforts,such as Fu’an mission returned to Ming, the tribute trade recovered, and formed prosperity during Yongle years(1403-1424). Then from the years of Hongxi(1425),Xuande(1426-1425) and Zhengtong(1436-1449), the relation witnessed a steady period, and effectively promote the friendly bilateral exchanges. In 1447, Shāh Rukh died, his heirs fought each other for power and gain, and the dynasty was apart, then its power declined greatly. On the other hand, in 1449, "Tumu crisis " had Ming’s constitution greatly undermined, and the national strength suffer a sudden decline.Ming and Timurid dynasty went downhill almost at the same time, gradually abandoned the positive attitude for external exchanges, and the tribute trade was also on the wane. Until 1507, the Uzbeks captured the Transoxiana,Timurid dynasty eventually perished, and the tribute trade had been cut off.The tribute trade between Ming dynasty and Timurid dynasty not only greatly promoted political, economic and cultural exchanges between the two countries, but also tightly linked Ming China and central Asian area through the "silk road on land”and created the magnificent words on diplomatic history of the Ming China and central Asia. Even to this day, the friendly exchanges history between Ming dynasty and Timurid dynasty could provide useful historical reference for mutual benefit,win-win progress,seeking common development,and building "the Silk Road Economic Belt" among China and the central Asian countries in the world of today.